The 4.19 Revolution in 1960 led to the establishment of the Second Republic of Korea, countering corruption during President Syngman Rhee's administration. This location served as the House of Prime Minister Jang Myeon during that period. Republics... France was also a republic during my time. A nation without a king is difficult to imagine. As it occurred after my time, I'm not well-versed in its details, but I believe the descendants made a wise choice.

Even though I'm not familiar with Jang Myeon, I did my research diligently to guide the 'Path of Learning' today, much like when I presented myself before the king. Therefore, the information I'll share now shouldn't have any major inaccuracies.
Jang Myeon... Let's call him Prime Minister Jang Myeon since he held that position. I understand he was akin to the Young Euijung (Premier) in my time. Even though he's remembered as a politician now, my research indicates he initially pursued a path in education. I heard that this house was planned near Dongsung Commercial School, where he spent 16 years working.
Prime Minister Jang Myeon played a significant role in 1948 as the chief delegate of South Korea at the United Nations General Assembly, securing approval that recognized South Korea as the sole legitimate government on the Korean Peninsula. As the first ambassador to the United States in 1950, he promptly sought UN intervention when the Korean War began on June 25th, ensuring quick engagement of UN forces. His fluency in English, learned during his earlier studies in the United States, and his exceptional diplomatic skills made these actions possible.

Being proficient in foreign languages seems crucial regardless of the era. Back in my time, figures like Oh Kyungseok made their mark during conflicts like the Byeonginyangyo with the French military in 1866 and the Shinmiyangyo with the United States in 1871. Sayeogwon, the office of Translators boasted many skilled individuals. Moreover, the establishment of Yookyounggongwon was aimed at teaching English, and later, the Hanseong Foreign Language School emerged… Ah, I've slipped back into tales of my time again. Let's return to the story of Prime Minister Jang Myeon.

Following that, Jang Myeon rose to the position of Prime Minister during President Syngman Rhee's administration but soon resigned. He then became the leader of the opposition party against the Freedom Party led by Syngman Rhee, opposing the dictatorship. He founded the Democratic Party and was elected as vice president. Standing with the people against the president during his four-year term as vice president, when the Second Republic of Korea was established under a parliamentary system after the 4.19 Revolution, he could ascend to the position of Prime Minister. However, the Second Republic of Korea was short-lived, ending due to the May 16 coup by Park Chung-hee in 1961, lasting only for about nine months. Following the military takeover, Jang Myeon, the once-prominent politician, found himself unable to maneuver.

Those behind the coup justified their actions by labeling the Second Republic of Korea as a time of chaos. Conversely, Prime Minister Jang Myeon saw it as a period where democracy was actively experienced and practiced by the people. Although Jang Myeon's cabinet lasted only nine months, the land development projects and the five-year economic plan they initiated were carried forward and implemented by the succeeding government.

There's an exhibition inside the House of Prime Minister Jang Myeon displaying his life, so it's worth exploring.

Now, let's continue. Go back to the Hyehwa-dong Rotary and cross the street toward Dongsung High School. As you walk down to the school, you'll notice a large monument. I'll give you more details once you're there.